Puerto Rico’s Best Beach Wedding Destinations for a Picture-Perfect Day

If you’re dreaming of saying “I do” with your toes in the sand and the sound of waves crashing behind you, then a beach wedding in Puerto Rico is calling your name. With nearly 300 miles of coastline, this Caribbean paradise has so many breathtaking beach spots for your big day. Whether you’re picturing an intimate elopement on a secluded cove or a beachfront venue at a luxury resort, Puerto Rico has something for every couple. Not to mention Puerto Rico also makes for the ideal wedding destination that can double as a honeymoon spot! Check out the top Puerto Rico beaches and venues where you can plan your wedding below.

Ready to start planning your epic Puerto Rico wedding adventure? Check out our Puerto Rico elopement packages.

Why Have a Beach Wedding in Puerto Rico?

Beyond the obvious (stunning beaches and year-round sunshine), Puerto Rico makes wedding planning easier than you might think.

Flights are accessible from most major U.S. cities, the island is more budget-friendly than other Caribbean destinations, and there are plenty of spots to relax and explore!

And the best part? If you’re a U.S. citizen, you don’t even need a passport to get here (more on the legal side of things below)!

Top 7 Beaches for a Wedding in Puerto Rico

Photo by Britta’s Photo

Puerto Rico has over 270 miles of coastline, meaning you have plenty of breathtaking beaches to choose from. Here are some of the best spots for a beach wedding in PR:

1. Flamenco Beach (Culebra)

Flamenco Beach is located on the small island of Culebra and is ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

With its powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and rolling green hills, this beach is a dream come true for a barefoot wedding. Since it’s a protected beach, please keep in mind leave no trace principles as you would with every location we mention.

Why You’ll Love This Beach Spot:

• Uncrowded and perfect for an intimate elopement.
• No commercial resorts, just natural beauty.
• Incredible snorkeling opportunities and sunset views for post-ceremony celebrations.

Things to Consider:

• It’s on Culebra, a small island that you’ll need to reach by ferry or a short flight.
• Limited vendors on the island, so plan ahead for catering and decor if needed.
• Permits may be required for larger wedding setups.

2. Playa Buyé (Cabo Rojo)

Located on the southwest coast of Puerto Rico, Playa Buyé is a hidden gem that has a tranquil vibe to it. The beach is known for its soft sand, clear blue waters, and gorgeous sunsets that create a perfect golden-hour backdrop for your ceremony. The waters are also usually calm, which gives you the best post-wedding swim opportunity. Trash the dress inspiration, anyone?

Why You’ll Love This Beach Spot:

• Stunning sunset views for dreamy wedding photos.
• Calm and shallow waters for the perfect swim together.
• Close to the charming town of Cabo Rojo, where guests can stay in boutique hotels.

Things to Consider:

• Off the beaten path. This beach is best for smaller weddings or elopements.
• Limited facilities, so think about hiring a wedding planner or the logistics of getting ready, etc.
• Summer months can be busier with local visitors.

3. Isla Verde Beach (San Juan)

If you want a destination wedding without sacrificing convenience, Isla Verde Beach is the perfect choice. Located just minutes from San Juan’s airport, this beach is lined with luxury resorts that offer all-inclusive wedding packages. You’ll get the best of both worlds: soft white sand and clear waters, plus access to world-class restaurants, bars, and entertainment.

Check out this small wedding in Old San Juan, which is great inspiration if you’re planning an intimate ceremony first and then exploring Isla Verde Beach!

Why You’ll Love This Beach Spot:

• Ideal for destination weddings with family and friends.
• High-end beachfront resorts offer full-service wedding planning.
• Close to Old San Juan, perfect for pre- or post-wedding activities.

Things to Consider:

• Can get busy, so consider a sunrise or weekday wedding for a more private experience.
• Some resort beaches require venue rental fees, so plan for that in your budget.
• It may be noisier and less private since you have more hotels and tourists around you.

4. Playa Piñones  (Loíza)

Photo by Britta’s Photo

For couples looking for a beach with a more local, cultural feel, Playa Piñones in Loíza is a hidden gem. Just minutes from San Juan, this beach is lined with swaying palm trees, rustic wooden boardwalks, and some of the best street food kiosks in Puerto Rico. It’s perfect for couples who want a laid-back, authentic Puerto Rican vibe for their wedding.

Why You’ll Love This Beach Spot:

• Beautiful natural setting with a rustic, untouched charm
• Vibrant local culture. Great food and music to enjoy on your big day!
• Easy access from San Juan, making travel a breeze. It’s 20 minutes from the airport!

Things to Consider:

• It’s more of a natural, untamed beach, not a resort area.
• Limited facilities, so think about getting ready and all that jazz (we love pop-up tents to change).
• Can get busy on weekends, so a weekday or sunrise ceremony is best

5. Luquillo Beach

Luquillo Beach is one of Puerto Rico’s most stunning locations, offering a golden-sand beach with views of El Yunque Rainforest in the background. The area is perfect for couples looking for a bit more than just a beach wedding in Puerto Rico. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore before or after your wedding in this area.

Why You’ll Love This Beach Spot:

• A beautiful mix of mountain and ocean scenery.
• There’s plenty of space for larger weddings and receptions, but this spot is also perfect for elopements.
• Close to El Yunque Rainforest, where you can have a waterfall photo shoot and continue your adventure together.

Things to Consider:

• It’s a popular beach, so opt for an early morning or weekday ceremony.
• Permits may be required for large wedding setups.
• Some areas are more touristy. Try picking a quieter section for a more private experience. Ask your photographer the best way to navigate this area (remember they are the pros)!

6. Crash Boat Beach (Aguadilla)

If you’re looking for a fun, vibrant, and Instagram-worthy wedding location, Crash Boat Beach is the place to be. This west coast beach is famous for its pier, colorful fishing boats, and stunning sunsets. It’s also a top spot for snorkeling and surfing, making it ideal for couples who love water sports.

Why You’ll Love This Beach Spot:

• Gorgeous turquoise waters and golden sand.
• This is a fun spot that has a mix of tourists and locals.
• Epic sunset views, perfect for golden-hour photography.

Things to Consider:

• It’s a popular beach, so a sunrise or sunset ceremony is best for privacy.
• No resorts directly on the beach, but nearby accommodations are available.
• Can be windy. Make sure to secure your decor and your veil if using one!

7. Domes Beach (Rincón)

If you and your partner love surfing or want a wild, dramatic ocean backdrop, Domes Beach in Rincón is the perfect spot. It has a rugged coastline, epic waves, and laid-back surf town vibes. This beach is ideal for couples who want something different from the typical tropical setting.

Why You’ll Love This Beach Spot:

• Unique and adventurous setting.
• Less touristy than other beaches.
• Amazing surf town culture with great local food and bars, which can make for unique photos too!

Things to Consider:

• Not ideal for swimming due to strong currents.
• Best for small weddings or elopements.
• Some parts of the beach are rocky, so plan footwear accordingly.

Want to learn more? Check out our Puerto Rico elopement packages.

Top 5 Beach Wedding Venues & Resorts in Puerto Rico

Photo by Britta’s Photo

If you’re dreaming of a beachfront venue that combines stunning ocean views, expert wedding planning, and all-inclusive amenities, Puerto Rico has plenty of gorgeous resorts and venues to choose from. Whether you’re looking for an elegant, five-star experience or a laid-back, intimate setting, these top-rated wedding venues offer something for every couple.

Below, we’ve highlighted some of the best beachfront resorts and wedding venues in Puerto Rico to help you find the perfect place to say “I do.”

1. St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort (Rio Grande)

Located in Rio Grande, the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort is a dream setting for couples who want an elegant beachfront wedding with all the perks of a luxury resort. The resort sits on 483 acres of tropical landscape with secluded beaches and stunning mountain views. You’ll have access to luxury wedding packages, personalized planning services, and a variety of indoor and outdoor ceremony options to pick from.

Why You’ll Love This Beach Spot:

• Private beach ceremonies with breathtaking oceanfront views.
• On-site luxury spa for pre-wedding pampering.
• World-class catering and customizable wedding packages.

Things to Consider:

• Best for larger weddings and luxury events.
• Venue fees and packages are on the higher end of the budget spectrum.
• Advanced booking is required, and consider booking out in advance because of its popularity.

2. Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve

For couples looking for a sophisticated, five-star beachfront wedding, Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is one of Puerto Rico’s most prestigious wedding venues. This exclusive beachfront resort features lush gardens, pristine beaches, and a historic 1920s plantation estate. You’ll also have a few options for your ceremony and reception, both indoor and outdoor options.

Why You’ll Love This Beach Spot:

• Private beach ceremonies with high-end, luxury service.
• Multiple venue options, including oceanfront lawns and historic estates.
• Michelin-star-level cuisine and personalized catering (yum!).

Things to Consider:

• One of the most expensive wedding venues in Puerto Rico.
• Best suited for luxury weddings with larger guest lists.
• Availability can be limited due to its exclusivity, so book way in advance.

3. Hacienda Siesta Alegre

Located just outside San Juan, Hacienda Siesta Alegre is a magical Spanish-style estate that offers a unique mix of colonial architecture, lush gardens, and ocean breezes. While not directly on the beach, it offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the El Yunque Rainforest. This is the perfect choice for couples who want a romantic, old-world atmosphere with a tropical touch. Unique venues like this one are right up the alley for a lot of our couples who plan elopements!

Why You’ll Love This Beach Spot:

• Gorgeous Spanish-style hacienda with gardens and fountains.
• Ideal for intimate weddings with a romantic, bohemian feel.
• Offers onsite accommodations for the wedding party.

Things to Consider:

• Not directly on the beach, but close to the coast.
• Limited availability. Book in advance since this spot is popular with couples planning destination weddings.
• Best for smaller weddings and elopements.

4. Villa Montaña Beach Resort (Isabela)

Photo by Britta’s Photo

If you’re looking for a relaxed and intimate beachfront venue, Villa Montana Beach Resort in Isabela is a hidden gem. This boutique resort sits on three miles of secluded beach and has the most stunning views. There are also lush tropical gardens to explore and private villas for wedding guests. It’s perfect for a stress-free, barefoot-in-the-sand wedding while still offering resort-level service and accommodations.

Why You’ll Love This Beach Spot:

• Secluded beachfront location with a romantic, boho-chic vibe.
• Perfect for elopements and small weddings.
• Offers customizable wedding packages and private villa rentals.

Things to Consider:

• Consider booking in advance if your wedding is during peak season.
• Less formal than traditional resort venues. This place feels much homier than most resorts, making it ideal for laid-back couples.
• Located in Isabela, about 2 hours from San Juan.

5. Copamarina Beach Resort (Guánica)

If you want a secluded beach wedding, Copamarina Beach Resort in Guánica is a great choice. This private beachfront resort is far from the hustle and bustle of Puerto Rico’s more touristy areas, offering a peaceful setting for couples who want a more intimate wedding experience.

Why You’ll Love This Beach Spot:

• Quiet and private beachfront location, which is perfect for a small ceremony.
• Offers affordable wedding packages compared to luxury resorts.
• Ideal for couples who love nature and a laid-back vibe.

Things to Consider:

• Best for smaller weddings and elopements.
• Located in Guánica, which is about 2 hours from San Juan.
• Limited nightlife or activities compared to more touristy areas.

Legal Requirements for a Beach Wedding in Puerto Rico

Getting married in Puerto Rico is pretty easy, but there are a few legal things you’ll need:

1. Birth certificates & valid photo ID (passport or driver’s license).
2. Marriage license application from the Demographic Registry Office.
3. Affidavit if you’re not a resident. The affidavit must be written by a lawyer, Notary Public, or other person authorized. This declaration must accompany the application.
4. Medical certification (valid within 10 days of application).
   
5. Internal Revenue Stamp ($20)
6. Two witnesses (if you’re having a traditional ceremony).
7. Officiant registration (your officiant must be registered in Puerto Rico).

There is no waiting period when applying for a marriage license in Puerto Rico, and the most convenient office to apply is located on the third floor of Plaza Las Americas Mall.

Important: You’ll also want to make sure your officiant delivers the certificate, marriage license, and all other documents to the Demographic Registry of the municipality where the ceremony took place no more than 10 days after the marriage.

Not sure how to handle the paperwork? Work with a Puerto Rico elopement photographer to take care of everything for you!

Top Tips for Planning a Beach Wedding in Puerto Rico

• Choose the right season – The best time for a beach wedding is December to April (dry season). You’ll want to avoid hurricane season (June to November).
• Time your ceremony wisely – Sunset weddings are the most magical and offer the best lighting for photos. However, think about what beach venues you’re planning your wedding ceremony at before making this decision. Sunset is still not ideal for a lot of popular destinations. 
  
• Plan for wind & humidity – Opt for light, flowy fabrics, and updos to keep your hair from frizzing. If you’re not stressing about looking “perfect”, embrace the craziness the wind brings!
• Secure permits if needed – Some public beaches require permits for wedding ceremonies. Check with your local vendor to make sure you have the most up-to-date information for your ceremony location. 
  
• Work with local vendors – Hiring a local photographer will make your experience WAY better than you imagined. These vendors have the experience and the inside scoop on everything you need to know from hidden beach areas tourists don’t know about to what to pack in for your adventure.

Ready to start planning? Find your dream Puerto Rico wedding photographer.